For a character with a reputation for collaring crooks, DC’s The Batman isn’t having much luck holding on to directors. Per The Hollywood Reporter, Dawn Of and War For The Planet Of The Apes director Matt Reeves—who was reportedly in pretty serious talks to helm the project after star Ben Affleck turned down the director’s chair himself—has now also walked away from the film. Negotiations between Reeves and Warner Bros. apparently broke down this week, although THR notes that it’s still possible they might resume.
Other potential candidates for the job have reportedly included Ridley Scott and Don’t Breathe’s Fede Alvarez. One thing is certain, though: One way or another, The Batman is going to happen, surging forward with the blind determination of a crusading Dark Knight. The character is too popular, and too lucrative, for DC and Warner to resist granting him a standalone movie. To quote The Reporter (possibly channeling a little Frank Miller or Grant Morrison of their own): “The studio is intent on making the movie no matter what, as the Batman franchise has proven to be bigger than one person.”